Over the span of six decades, Wayne Shorter didn't just collect awards; he left an indelible mark on the jazz world. The extraordinary talent that he was, even jazz legends like Miles Davis and Art Blakey vied for him. Dorsay Alavi’s documentary, "Wayne Shorter: Zero Gravity," streaming on Prime Video, celebrates what would have been Shorter's 90th birthday. The series offers more than just a biography of the New Jersey native. It paints an emotional and artistic landscape, focusing on Shorter's unparalleled musicianship and his quest for creativity and individuality.
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Alavi, who began capturing Shorter on film in 2002, employs a mix of interviews, artistic illustrations, and monochrome flashbacks. These elements breathe life into Shorter’s childhood memories and offer glimpses into his spirituality. Although some of Alavi’s artistic choices might seem overdone, most of them resonate well with the eclectic and expansive nature of her subject.
One of the highlights of the documentary is the testimonials from musicians. Iconic figures such as Joni Mitchell, Sonny Rollins, Ron Carter, Carlos Santana, and Shorter’s close friend, Herbie Hancock, offer intimate reflections. They delve into the essence of a man whose artistry was a blend of technical skill and soulful ingenuity.
As kids in Newark, Wayne and his older brother Alan displayed remarkable memory. They mimick movie dialogues and music scores after just one viewing. This was an early indication of Shorter’s deep connection to diverse forms of art, from classical pieces to pop-culture oddities. The documentary also captures the special bond between Shorter and Hancock. It is one described by musician Terence Blanchard as a unique psychic connection.
Shorter's career saw many highlights. He first gained recognition in Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers and was soon enticed into joining Miles Davis' revolutionary Second Great Quintet. In 1970, he co-founded Weather Report, a jazz-rock fusion band that gained massive popularity. His relentless artistic explorations were evident as he contributed to Mitchell’s albums and initiated several side projects.
However, Shorter's life wasn't all about music. The documentary touches upon his struggles. It includes the tragic story of his daughter Iska, who suffered from brain damage due to an allergic reaction to a vaccine. These intimate details are shared with both sensitivity and candor, reflecting the complexities and resilience in Shorter’s personal life.
The final installment shows Shorter in his later years, meeting fans and hosting an array of visitors in his fantasy-themed home office. Alavi may occasionally falter by including celebrities like Jeff Garlin and Neil deGrasse Tyson, whose presence adds little to Shorter’s story. Still, the film shines in its musical sections, brilliantly edited to resonate with Shorter’s compositions.
Alavi’s documentary captures the essence of a man whose life was a blend of immense talent and profound wisdom. He was not just a musician but also a philosopher, always aware that "you can’t rehearse the unknown." "Zero Gravity" serves as an homage to Shorter. It focuses on both his extraordinary artistry and his ability to live life as a constantly unfolding improvisation.
